Over-the-Counter (OTC) Medicines

The New York State Department of Health, Pharmacists Society of the State of New York and New York State Council of Health-system Pharmacists have collaborated with the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) on a consumer and pharmacist health education campaign on the safe use of OTC pain relievers.

This statewide campaign will involve approximately 4,000 pharmacies. Consumers will be encouraged to become partners in their health care and to read labels and directions and ask their pharmacists or health care provider about their OTC pain relievers.

Additional collaborative partners include the American Diabetes Association, National Kidney Foundation, American Liver Association, New York State Nurses Association, New York State Poison Control Centers and various health care professionals.

Related Information

Use Caution With Pain Relievers - This FDA Consumer article, revised in November 2003, discusses the benefits and risks of using over-the-counter pain relievers and fever reducers. For reprints, e-mail dpapubs@fda.hhs.gov, or call 301-796-3703 or 1-888-INFO-FDA. (PDF 447KB, 1pg.)